Patio is all work and no play
Our patio is in desperate need of attention. We moved into our house in 1987 and it was sufficient at the time, but we had a plan to make it a lovely entertaining place for our family and friends. Our children's high school activities expenses ate into our patio fund. Then the college bills came and our patio plan was placed on the low end of priorities. Now that the children are out of college and pretty much on their own, my husband has developed severe heart trouble and has serious knee issues and no longer has the physical strength or ability to tackle upgrading our patio to an entertainment area.
Our patio has pretty much become a work area, and it's up to me to do the heavy lifting to clear the patio of tools and yard implements whenever we do have company. I would love to win this contest so that our children and our grandchildren and friends and neighbors can join us for our outdoor barbecues and dinners and enjoy a lovely outdoor area that makes everyone feel welcome and comfortable.
Design by Steinhafels
Expert: Andrea Odishoo, www.steinhafels.com
Budget: $5,000
The Allison's patio and backyard is heavy on work and light on play. Over the years the patio has become more of a storage area.
Suggestions
• A Cassidy expandable dining table allows for flexibility and can seat eight people. There's a self-storing leaf for convenience. It's made from durable, rust-resistant cast aluminum.
• Swivel chairs at the ends of the table, along with stationary chairs, are cushioned in fade-resistant Sunbrella fabric.
• The Sherwood five-piece bar set provides extra seating for large gatherings and the bar provides a sizable surface for setting out food and beverages. Shelves for storage are located on the inside of the bar.
• A Big Green Egg grill smokes, roasts, bakes and retains heat and moisture so food doesn't dry out.
• A rug and umbrella are necessities for shade and comfort underfoot and to add a colorful, finished look to any deck space.